Nestlé Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS)

The Nestlé Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS) is the largest and most comprehensive dietary intake study focused on infants, toddlers and preschoolers in the U.S. Started in 2002 by Gerber and now conducted by the Nestlé Research Center in Lausanne, Switzerland, FITS has surveyed nearly 10,000 parents and caregivers over three studies to gain a better understanding of the food and nutrient intakes and related lifestyle behaviors among young children.

FITS 2016 Highlights

Areas for improvement

Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) infants 6-12 months fall short on dietary iron.

More than 1/4 of children 6 to 48 months don't eat a single serving of vegetables on a given day.

3/4 (75%) of 1-3 year olds consume too much sodium.

Almost all (90%) 2-3 year olds consume sweet foods or sweetened beverages on a given day.

About 20% of 1-3 year olds don't drink cow's milk on a given day.

Successes

More mothers breastfeed, and for a longer duration compared to FITS 2002.

More than 1/2 (59%) of 2-3 year olds eat whole grains on a given day.

Fewer infants are drink 100% fruit juice since FITS 2008, with the same likelihood of eating fruit.

FITS Resources

The content on this site is for educational purposes only and is intended solely for medical professionals in the United States only. If you are not a medical professional, please visit www.gerber.com.

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